This site is designed to give music educators and students access to recommended band music.
As I believe the heart of any good music program is centered on good repetoire selection, and finding music that both teachers and students will enjoy, I have included listening examples to all of the works that I could, as well as publiser descriptions and grade level. As this site expands, I hope to include more on teaching concepts, and expected challenges within each piece.
Be sure to also visit my Wind Band Music Discussion Page to share your experience with others.
Beginning Bands Grade 1 - 1.5
Concerto for Triangle
Mike Hannickel - Grade 0.5
"This entertaining novelty piece has a cute, classical sound and presents an opportunity for a school
staff member's solo debut! Falling music, sneezing, and cell phone ringing causes your well-known
faculty member, and guest soloist, to miss each and every cue! Finally, with the assistance of a helpful student,
the soloist finally executes the long-awaited note, followed by a final chord from the band while the soloist takes a
theatrical bow."
Listen
Gentle Winds
Timothy Loest - Grade 0.5
"Lush harmonies and lyrical phrases abound in this incredibly expressive work. Approachable by the youngest
of bands, this amazingly artistic composition is also more than appropriate for mature ensembles.
Outdoor wind chimes and easy effects produce the sound of a gentle breeze sweeping through the auditorium.
A fantastic lyrical work that is quite accessible."
Listen
Air for Band
Frank Erickson
Slow expressive melody. Theme can be found mostly in the clarinet 1 part, and flute. Very little low brass movement. Key signature includes Three flats (m. 1-m. 43); No flats (m. 44- end.). All clarinets go over the break in the music, Oboe ranges up to c2, f sharp 1 and g1 can be found in the trumpet parts, very little rhythmical movement in the low brass, oboe doubles flute part in many sections.
Listen
Dialogues
Douglas E. Wagner - Grade 1
"One voice listens to another, hears and responds...' So begins the 'Notes to the Conductor' from this musical
investigation of communication. The choirs within the ensemble state their comments and then interweave
and give response. Sensitive dynamic structuring underlines the programmatic and educational significance
of this fascinating work."
Listen
Grasshopper Dance
Richard L. Saucedo - Grade 1
"Cleverly written with creative effects and an energetic style, Richard has created a unique-sounding original
for very young players that's guaranteed to be a blast to perform. "
Listen
Midnight Star
Bourgault - Grade 1
Here is that tender ballad you need to complete your next program. Written in Eb, the ABA Midnight Star is an excellent work for teaching phrasing and slurring. Simple, yet beautiful, this is not the story of the stars, but rather of the thoughts of the stargazer who witnesses the wonders of the universe.
Listen
Shepherd's Hey
Roszell - Grade 1
This very familiar traditional British folk song scored for your beginners begins with a simple melodic statement. The arrangement builds in intensity and tempo through the final musical punctuation. Subtle intricacies are clearly demonstrated with the addition of characteristic counter melodic material. A solid choice, your beginning band will sound polished and professional!
Listen
Through the Mist
Brian Balmages - Grade 1
"Simple themes combine with complex harmonies to create a uniquely artistic work at this level.
Designed to be playable by very young musicians, the work is also quite suitable for more mature groups
(who can also consider adding a substantial amount of rubato for an amazing artistic experience with
minimal technique). A timeless work that is sure to become a standard for groups looking to have the
ultimate musical experience at this level."
Listen
Black is the Color
Robert Sheldon - Grade 1.5
Black Is the Color (of My True Love's Hair) is a traditional folk song first known in the Appalachian Mountains region of United States in 1915, but most probably originated from Scotland. It is about a girl who is waiting for her lover to return from sea.
Listen
Big Raven
Vince Gassi - Grade 1.5
"Big Raven takes its inspiration from a painting by Canadian artist, Emily Carr. It was commissioned
for the official opening of Emily Carr Public School in Oakville, Canada. Haunting forest sounds set the
mood for a moving and reflective work."
Listen
Black Is the Color...
Robert Sheldon - Grade 1.5
"Black Is the Color (of My True Love's Hair) is a traditional folk song first known in the Appalachian
Mountains region of United States in 1915, but most probably originated from Scotland. It is about
a girl who is waiting for her lover to return from sea."
Listen
Count Rockula
Timothy Loest - Grade 1.5
"Experience monster rock like youve never experienced before! This well-crafted, easy-grooving
original derives its ghoulish charm from its funky beat and various sound effects, including flexatone,
finger snaps, and the entire ensemble shouting Boo! A frighteningly fun piece that will put a smile
on everyone's face, even if it is midnight with a full moon!"
Listen
Huron Trail
Sean O'Loughlin - Grade 1.5
"Huron Trail is an energetic piece for developing bands. The music reflects the rich tradition of
tribal music from centuries ago. It depicts the challenges of the early settlers and the perils that
lied along the frontier. Percussion is an integral part of this musical tradition and is featured
extensively in this piece."
Listen
In Dreams
Ryan Meeboer - Grade 1.5
"In Dreams is a musical representation of exactly what our dreams are like: peaceful, calming,
horrific, and unpredictable; yet, there is always something to remember about them when we wake up.
This piece reflects that by manipulating a memorable eighth note motif through various styles, feels,
tempos, and instrumentation."
Listen
Looking Past the Shadows
Richard L. Saucedo - Grade 1.5
"Featuring a flowing lyric style and beautiful harmonies, this composition for beginning groups allows
you to teach phrasing and musicality in a rewarding setting. With easy rhythms and moderate ranges,
this is very attainable for young players. "
Listen
March of the Machines
Carl Strommen - Grade 1.5
"Droids, robots, and transformers. We hear them coming in the distanceominously and persistently.
The piece depicts these mechanized creatures marching toward us as the piece unfolds and builds to
a satisfying climax. A fun march for your next concert."
Listen
Storm Clouds
James Swearingen - Grade 1.5
"This exciting new work has all the magical ingredients necessary to bring about a rewarding experience
for both audience and musicians alike. Instruments scored where they sound best, interesting melodic
lines and rhythmic percussion parts all combine to create a composition that will deliver musical impact
from beginning to end. A guaranteed winner!"
Listen
The Journey of Invention
David Marlatt - Grade 1.5
"Inventions have changed our lives. Whether it be the wheel, electricity, car, telephone or the microchip.
This piece is about the path or journey to these great discoveries. The music is always moving forward-advancing.
Even with slight sidetracks or failed experiments, the journey presses on."
Listen
Warriors of Beijing
Rob Grice - Grade 1.5
"This work depicts the ancient battles of Qin Shi Huang, the 1st emperor of China in 221 BC, and his warriors.
Qin Shi Huang had over 8000 Terracotta Warriors buried in front of his tomb in order to have a strong
underground army to defend him in the afterlife."
Listen
Junior Bands Grade 2 - 2.5
Die Meistersinger
arr. Larry Daehn - Grade 2
All the sweep and grandeur of Wagner’s music encapsulated in a symphonic miniature for young band. Two of his noblest themes are joined in a concert piece that will inspire, yet not fatigue, young players. High quality educational music!
Listening not yet available
Espaa Ca
arr. Michael Story - Grade 2
"The familiar melody of this paso doble is more recognizable by ear than by title.
With a Latin flair, Michael Story has masterfully scored this traditional double step for young band with
energy and pizzazz. Right in the pocketall we can say is Ole!"
Listen
Fields of Kent
Victor Lopez - Grade 2
"The mind's eye envisions the history, the heritage... the times of war, the times of peace on an historic
plain whose serene environment belies the richness of its past. Allow your audience the opportunity to
musically see a vista where time records the doings of mankind. A marvelously dramatic work that is
supremely atmospheric in final performance. Highly recommended. "
Listen
Homeward Bound
Words and music by Marta Keen
Vocal arrangement by Jay Althouse, instrumental arrangement by Brant Karrick - Grade 2
"Homeward Bound" is one of the most popular and widely-performed contemporary choral pieces.
This heartfelt piece is elegant in its simplicity and has touched thousands of musicians and their audiences
with its warmth and sincerity. Create a stirring moment for combined band and choir using this exquisite
new setting for concert band.
Listen
Junkyard Jam
Kevin Mixon - Grade 2
You'll have to bring in the trash for this hard-driving number! The piece employs both rock and
introductory Afro-Cuban styles, but with a twist: percussionists perform on optional junkyard
instruments such as 5-gallon buckets and plastic garbage cans and lids.
A spirited middle section invites other band members to get into the act too.
Listen
Largo from Symphony From the New World
arr: David Marlatt - Grade 2
The principal lyrical theme from the second movement is equal in fame and popularity to
Pachelbels Canon and Albinonis Adagio. This incredibly simple and beautiful theme has been
arranged here for a soloist (Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet or Baritone) and band.
This is a great piece to showcase the talents of a member in the ensemble.
Listen
Legend of the Lake
Alan Lee Silva - Grade 2
A contrast between heroic trumpet melodies and lyrical woodwind lines highlight this effective
new composition from Alan Lee Silva. Bands will sound their best and love doing it with this
distinctive new piece that is suitable for concert or contest.
Listen
Meeting at Tryon Place
Richard L. Saucedo - Grade 2
Described by the composer as bombastic, but with a groove this work for young players
opens with striking percussion statements. The band enters gradually, first with unison figures along
with the percussion, and then additional layers. A contrasting slow section with flowing lines and
minor harmonies sets the stage for the dramatic final section.
A great way to showcase your percussion section.
Listen
Nessun Dorma
arr: Johnnie Vinson - Grade 2
There may not be a more beautiful melody in all of classic literature than this masterpiece by Puccini.
This wonderful adaptation for young players gives all sections of the band a chance to play the melody
at some point. What better way to teach a lyric style of playing than with this well-paced and
rich-sounding arrangement.
Listen
Pulsation
Richard Saucedo - Grade 2
Written entirely in one tempo, but with the meter alternating between 4/4 and 6/8 throughout,
Richard Saucedo creates an ingenious effect of pulsating motion along with layers of textures and sounds.
Starting with a soloistic dialogue between flute and clarinet the work progresses to thicker sonorities and
percussive effects including clapping and shouting. Definitely off the beaten path.
Listen
River of Hope
Michael Sweeney - Grade 2
The centerpiece of this work for band is the memorable Appalachian folk hymn Down to the River to Pray,
which was featured in the 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou? Interspersed with this melody is a faster
original theme that provides a complementary yet contrasting tone to the emotional statements of the folk hymn.
Richly scored and flowingly beautiful.
Listen
Scheherezade Selections
Arr. L.C Harnsberger
Scheherazade is Rimsky-Korsakov’s amazing musical interpretation of the tales of the Arabian Nights as told to the sultan by his wife who is destined to be executed. Her stories over 1,001 nights so engage the sultan he eventually spares her life. This skillful arrangement transforms some of the most memorable themes of the original piece into a real audience pleaser perfect for younger performers. The mysterious mood of the opening from “The Sea and Sinbad’s Ship” sets the tone for the magical music to come. Woodwinds soar with the lyrical melodies of “The Young Prince and Princess,” and the full band shines in the exciting selection from “The Story of the Kalendar Prince.” Scheherazade Selections will make a successful addition to any concert.
Listen
Triumphs!
Joshua V. Hinkel - Grade 2
Triumphs! is a symbolic work that serves to celebrate successes that occur every day in every walk of life.
Listen
Willow Creek Festival
Steve Hodges - Grade 2
Beginning with an energetic fanfare, Willow Creek Festival is an upbeat piece that moves along smoothly in
triple meter. The main theme is presented by the clarinets and saxophones and then again by the trumpets
and flutes. A repetition of the introduction provides a transition to a contrasting section in 5/4 time which
features a memorable melody in the relative minor key. With varied percussion colors, active rhythmic patterns
and an effective countermelody, an excellent contrast is achieved. The main theme returns and flows into an
exciting variation of the initial fanfare, bringing the piece to a dynamic conclusion.
Listen
Wind Cycles
Bill Calhoun - Grade 2
The sport of cycling encompasses many forms: recreational, competitive, and even amusing.
After a dramatic introduction, the music moves to portray the incessant pedaling of the riders.
Let your imagination fill in the rest of the story as you continue on your journey.
Listen
A Call for Peace
Brad Ciechomski - Grade 2.5
Change the pace of your next concert with this wonderfully lyrical work based on a world without conflict.
Beautiful sweeping lines and soaring countermelodies build to an intense key change before the work
returns to the gentle orchestration found at the beginning. Quite achievable for bands at this level .
Listen
Afterburn
Randall Standridge - Grade 2.5
This piece seeks to capture the emotions of flight in a supercharged jet plane: excitement at takeoff,
awe at the beauty of the earth, and an adrenaline burst of joy when the afterburners kick in.
An exciting musical ride for young bands not to be missed!
Listen
Burma Patrol March
arr: James Swearingen - Grade 2.5
No concert would be complete without a rousing rendition of a well-crafted King march.
"Burma Patrol" has been a long-time favorite of march aficionados around the world who
recognize quality music when they hear it.
Listen
British Masters Suite
Moss - Grade 2.5
Drawing on the marvelous tradition of British composers, John Moss has created a varied suite of classic works adapted for young bands. Includes Marching Song by Holst, Nimrod from Elgar's “Enigma Variations” and Sine Nomine by Vaughan Williams. A terrific setting for contest or festivals!
Listen
Fireflash
Rob Romeyn - Grade 2.5
Energy, intensity, and a "flash" of contemporary compositional technique all combine to
make "Fireflash" a powerful choice for concert and festival use for developing bands.
Memorable melodic material and a driving rhythmic pattern create the excitement and effect.
Solid scoring makes this accessible to most concert bands.
A truly outstanding addition to the young band repertoire!
Listen
March of the Buccaneers
Victor Flowers - Grade 2.5
This European-style march is ushered in by a quiet percussion feature followed by the sounds
of a first strain flute/piccolo duet and a beautiful, low register clarinet based trio.
Add a touch of class on your next concert or festival appearance!
Listen
On the Edge of the Sword
David Shaffer - Grade 2.5
Energetic and intense, "On The Edge Of The Sword" captures the excitement of the legendary
sword duels of the ancient warriors. Contemporary writing, driving percussion and flowing melodies
combine to produce a dynamically effective musical experience for both your students and your audience.
Guaranteed to make your young musicians sound refined and mature.
Listen
The Red Baron
Erik Morales - Grade 2.5
Based on a famous World War I German fighter pilot, this work feeds off of the raw emotion of
open-air cockpit combat. A haunting opening effectively uses voices to portray a great red tri-plane
emerging from a misty cloudbank in preparation for battle. As the pace of music intensifies, the plane is
ambushed from behind and roaring trombone glissandos help paint a picture of aviation chaos as the
planes dive through the air. Absolutely thrilling!
Listen
Trailblazers
Victor Lpez - Grade 2.5
Opening with a bold flair, Trailblazers develops with the introduction of a stately, almost somber
moment and then to a reflective charming treatment of the theme. The work is interrupted with musical
punctuation and concludes with a bright flashy coda. Highly recommended for both contest and concert.
Listen
Whale Warriors
Brian Balmages - Grade 2.5
Experience the stunning true story of Captain Paul Watson and his crew as they set sail in the Antarctic
in an attempt to sink whaling ships! The music paints a picture of their ship, the Farley Mowat, which is
painted black with a Jolly Roger hoisted up. The energy rises as they engage other ships and risk their
lives to save these beautiful defenseless creatures. Awe inspiring!
Listen
Intermediate / Senior Bands
Academic Processional & Recessional
arr: Robert W. Smith/Ed Huckeby - Grade 3
"Pomp and Circumstance" and "Sine Nomine" have become the standard processional and recessional
melodies for academic ceremonies and functions worldwide. Robert W. Smith and Ed Huckeby have
combined their talents and give us a fresh and creative new perspective on these academic standards.
Listen
Alligator Alley
Michael Daugherty
Describing a stretch of Interstate 75 that crosses through Florida's Everglades National Park, Alligator Alley celebrates this noble beast that has remained largely unchanged from prehistoric times. The first theme (Alligator's Theme) features the woodwinds (predominantly bassoons) while the second theme (Hunter's Theme) is performed by the brass. Program notes and staging suggestions are included in this marvelously descriptive work
Listen
Apollo Anniversary
David Mruzek - Grade 3
July 20th, 1969 was the day that Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon,
Celebrate the fortieth anniversary of this historic event with this traditional concert march honoring
the crew of Apollo 11 and all the personnel at NASA that helped make this dream a reality.
Listen
Canadian Folk Trilogy
Vince Gassi - Grade 3
Canadian Folk Trilogy offers a refreshing setting of three popular Canadian Folk songs.
Kicking things off is Donkey Riding. Inuit Lullaby slows the pace with a simple but beautiful
melody set in three bar phrases. Finally, we conclude with a rollicking version of I's the B'y" (Im the Boy),
a traditional Newfoundland folk song.
Listen
Canonic Fantasy
Bill Calhoun - Grade 3
As the title implies, Canonic Fantasy is based on a harmonic canon that forms the basis for this
excellent new concert band work. It begins slowly and dramatically and then weaves into a bold
and dynamic allegro. Alert your contest list committee about this pieceit has all the makings of
standard fare for contest/festival performance!
Listen
Celebration and Song
By Robert Sheldon - Grade 3
With a rhythmic drive and tuneful melody, this concert overture engages the listener from the
first measure. Colorful scoring and tasteful percussion bring the opening section to life. The plaintive
lyrical section follows, featuring solos and soaring accompanimental lines.
A return to the original theme brings the piece to a close with a rousing high-energy conclusion.
Listen
Divinum Mysterium
James Swearingen - Grade 3
Once in a great while, music is written in such a way that audience members find themselves so
emotionally consumed that they are unable to express themselves with immediate applause at its
conclusion. Noted composer James Swearingen has created a wonderful hymn setting that is full
of emotion and, in a very reflective way, spiritually uplifting. A brief horn solo introduces thematic
material that is very expressive and highly satisfying. Beyond words!
Listen
Fate of the Gods
arr: Matt Conaway - Grade 3
For some time, advanced bands have enjoyed Steven Reinekes popular composition
"Fate of the Gods." In this new edition, Matt Conaway has carefully adapted Stevens outstanding w
ork for younger groups, so they too can experience this important legend from Norse mythology.
This is sure to bring down the house at your next performance! STUNNING!
Listen
Fortitude
Sean O'Loughlin - Grade 3
Fortitude is a rhythmic and energetic piece, representing the trials and tribulations that we all have
to overcome at some point in life. Keeping a positive attitude is the message heard in the music
of this inspiring work. A strong choice for contest/festival performance.
Listen
Intrada Festiva
Michael Story - Grade 3
A musical celebration of life skillfully crafted by Michael Story develops a joyous melody through a
myriad of voices and textures. Playing on the rhythmic composition, the celebration continues to
build incorporating the use of subtle mixed meter and accent shifts that will delight the performers
and audiences alike. This solidly scored original work will serve well as either an opener or closer to
bring your program to a stunning conclusion. A real winner!
Listen
Kingsmere Overture
Ryan Meeboer - Grade 3
This work is divided into 3 main sections depicting the development of a career as a music educator:
The Establishment, The Departure and The Triumph. Each section has its own character and style
featuring different soloists or sections of the band.
Listen
Morceau Symphonique
arr: David Marlatt - Grade 3
This trombone solo is playable by a very good high school level player (about a grade 4-5 level).
It has been recorded by all the great soloists and is a required piece on many competition lists.
The powerful and organ like supporting material make the remaining ensemble parts interesting
and challenging.
Listen
Pony Express
Chris M. Bernotas - Grade 3
Pony Express reminds us of a time when the fastest way to deliver a message was on horseback,
riding across the plains, mountains and desert. This piece has a slight off-beat gallop for the
horseback ride and a lyrical section that is reminiscent of looking out over the vast spaciousness
of the plains and then we are back on the mission to deliver the mail and on to a most enjoyable finish!
Listen
Rockwell Portrait
Erik Morales - Grade 3
Based on the paintings of Norman Rockwell, this lyrical work captures a sense of pure simplicity.
A haunting main theme explores several different tonal centers as the work continues to develop and build.
Soaring countermelodies weave in and out of the texture while the lush harmonies unfold in a tapestry
of colors and sound. Amazingly beautiful and very accessible.
Listen
Sunburst
Erik Morales - Grade 3
Depicting the awe-inspiring moments after a thunderstorm, this concert overture is an exciting and
dramatic work that portrays streaks of sunlight jetting toward the horizon. A lyrical opening sets the
tone as the clouds begin to break, and then the music takes off in a frenzy of excitement as the sunlight
breaks through. Incredible harmonies intertwine with dynamic fanfares and woodwind flourishes as the
work continues to develop. A lyrical section provides a brief respite to the active rhythmic pulse before
the music takes off again, building to one last heroic statement of the main theme. Inspirational
Listen
Torrents of Fire
Larry Neeck - Grade 3
An inferno of excitement, "Torrents of Fire" will light-up your next concert program. Driving rhythms and
aggressive percussion, balanced with bold, lyrical themes, provide a stunning variety of color and intensity.
The contrasting middle section, with its optional flute solo and mallet percussion background, provides a
hypnotic and sonorous contrast to the hard-driving nature of the rest of the piece. Perfect for concert or contest,
"Torrents of Fire" will showcase your entire band with intensity and enthusiasm.
Listen
Washington Post March
arr: Jay Bocook - Grade 3
This lively 6/8 march from John Philip Sousa remains one of his best-known and most performed marches.
While keeping the essence of the original intact, Jay Bocook does a masterful job of adjusting the instrumentation
and ranges to be playable by just about any young band.
Listen
The Center Ring Circus March
arr: Andrew Glover Grade 3.5
All the images of circus under the big top will come to life with this exciting march by the "King" of circus music!
This thrilling and lively circus march is an excellent choice for any performance, and will please audiences and
excite performers. Not nearly as difficult as most circus marches, "The Center Ring" is a great choice for an
opening or closing selection for your next concert. Superb!
Listen
Semper Fidelis
arr. Andrew Balent - Grade 3.5
When you see the names John Philip Sousa and Andrew Balent, you know it will be good.
Balent takes one of Sousa's most popular marches and works it down to put some of the
technical demands in check for most bands. This is what Andy does best!
Listen
He's Gone Away
Rick Kirby - Grade 4
One of the most distinctive characteristics of this traditional Appalachian folk song is the jazz-like use
of occasional blue notes in the melody and harmony. This setting effectively explores the many
instrumental colors and textures of the modern concert band, yet it maintains the simplicity and
beauty of the original melody.
Listen
Passages
Michael Sweeney - Grade 4
The term passage can variously describe a passageway of travel, a musical phrase, or
perhaps the soul's moving on from this world to the next. In this work for band, dark and rich
from the brass. Later, an alto sax soloist adds a haunting quality to the mood followed by a return
of the ethnic drumming heard earlier. This unique and rewarding composition is beautifully paced
and skillfully orchestrated using every section of the band.
Listen
Pursuit
Matt Conaway - Grade 4
This explosive work for more advanced bands takes your audience through a riveting story of an
escaped convict on the run. Matt Conaway uses rapidly changing meters, dynamic percussion writing,
and sudden shifts of style to make this a worthwhile challenge for concert or contest.
This will be a memorable piece for your audience and musicians!
Listen
Ricochet
Sean O'Loughlin - Grade 4
Ricochet is an explosive new composition from composer Sean O'Loughlin that is full of
polychords and creative accents and is a study of rhythm and color for advancing ensembles.
The music contains nods to master composers, while keeping a strong foot in the present and the future.
Listen
The Cossack
arr: David Marlatt - Grade 4
This is an incredibly popular concert march in the British brass band world. Arranged here for the
modern concert band, this will soon become a favorite with concert bands as well. Bold brass writing
and colorful woodwind runs gives something fun for everyone to do.
Listen
Uncle Henry
arr. Gary Reeves - Grade 4
"Uncle Henry" was the nickname given to Henry Fillmore around the state of Florida by band directors
and band students for all that he did to raise the standard of bands in the state. Howard Akers pays
tribute to Henry with this stellar march that was originally published one year after Fillmore's death in 1957.
Gary Reeves gives this delightful piece a much-needed face lift in this modern edition so that bands can
enjoy this tuneful march for many more years to come.
Listen
Way Down Yonder In New Orleans
arr. Jerry Nowak - Grade 4
A fresh new arrangement of this timeless jazz standard by prominent arranger Jerry Nowak.
It features big band stylings and harmonies, but in the realm of the modern concert band.
There is a very nice brass quintet feature in the middle of the arrangement.
Advancing groups or community bands will find this to be a crowd favorite for your next
pops concert or any other concert.
Listen
Costa del Sol
David Shaffer - Grade 4.5
Based upon a series of chord progressions common to generations of Spanish flamenco guitarists,
David Shaffer has crafted a spirited and beautiful setting of three authentic Spanish folk dance forms.
This energetic and captivating composition opens with a fiery statement reminiscent of the traditional
Spanish bullfights. A quick folk dance in (Jota) follows, utilizing traditional Spanish percussion.
The middle section is introduced with a lush alto saxophone solo leading into a lyrical folk dance (Fandango).
The fiery Jota returns in two separate but distinct forms to conclude the piece. An excellent contest piece.
Listen
Godzilla Eats Los Vegas
Eric Whitacre - grade 5+
A very challenging and programatic work in which players get to scream, play thirty different styles from mambo to lounge jazz, and is accomanied by a movie of Godzilla. You really just need to watch the video to get it:
Watch Part 1 Part 2
Midnight on Main Street
Brian Balmages - Grade 5
This imaginative work was conceived as the underscore to a fictional fireworks show.
The opening section suggests the massive fireworks bursting in grand fashion as the
music thrives on each explosion, feeding on energy in a frenzy of excitement.
As one final firework explodes to blanket the sky in lights, the second section begins.
This section is very impressionistic, depicting a stunning laser show with an array of colors and images.
The final section is based on an infectious dance in 7/8 time. This musical celebration is both driving and playful,
signifying the return of the fireworks. A coda section includes huge fanfares, forceful rhythms, and metallic sounds
that welcome the grand finale while building to a dramatic conclusion. Absolutely amazing!
Listen
Sevens
Sameul R. Hazo
Best described as a jazz-flavored barnburner for wind symphony, Sam Hazo's exciting work pays homage to the innovative concepts of George Gerswhin and an appreciation for modern day jazz composer Gordon Goodwin. Sevens refers to the common jazz chord of the 7th as well as number of notes in the phrase, time signatures, etc. Strangely enough, both Gershwin and Goodwin share the same initials (G.G.), have 7 letters in their names, and the letter G is the 7th letter of the alphabet! Let it rip.
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